A Tribute to the departing Iowa congressman is taking place today on the US House floor

Des Moines – Iowa Democratic Party Chair Sue Dvorsky released the following statement today on retiring Congressman Leonard Boswell’s service to the state of Iowa and the United States of America:

Each member of Iowa’s congressional delegation and other Republican and Democratic congressmen spoke during a Special Order Tribute on the US House floor today, arranged by his Republican colleague Tom Latham.

“Leonard Boswell has worked for his country, his state, and his community throughout a lifetime of public service.  Lieutenant Colonel Boswell had a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Army.  His service in the Iowa Senate, as President of that body from 1993 to 1996, was where he first took the lessons he brought from his military life, and brought them to bear in the political arena.  Those lessons included focus on the mission at hand, and get the job done.  Trust your team, and let them know they can trust you.  And perhaps most importantly, leave no comrade behind.   In 1997, Leonard brought those values to work for Iowans, and their neighbors across the country, in the United States House of Representatives.  His work on transportation issues has changed the face of Iowa.  But it has been his advocacy for his fellow veterans and their families, that has changed the heart of Iowa.

We are grateful to his wife, Dody, and his family, for sharing him with us these many years.  We are proud of the work he has done, and we welcome him home with open arms.”

Rep. Leonard Boswell served 16 years in the House of Representatives, as a member of Agriculture and Transportation committees. Rep. Steny Hoyer, of Maryland, said Congressman Boswell has “brought a greater level of civility and understanding to this institution” of congress.

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